Lessons From My Burnout: A Personal Story

Most of us don’t see burnout coming. You may be tired, overworked, overwhelmed, stressed, lacking energy, exhausted, but burn out? Nah, not you. You’re a business owner with a company to run! You’re a go-getter who is dedicated to the bottom line, finishing each task, achieving every goal, growing your business. You keep trekking along, often on fumes, sometimes sputtering, but still moving forward to reach your goals. But without occasionally taking a timeout, you will burn out.

Burnout shows its ugly face in many different situations and is caused by numerous factors which may actually be in your control. Most of us fail to see it coming though, and that is the real problem. We continue burning a candle at both ends of the stick without a worry until we’ve exhausted ourselves to the point of a breakdown. There are sayings that aim at providing a bit of relief. “Failure is not the opposite of success, it’s part of success,” by Arianna Huffington. “Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations,” by Unknown. “Sometimes things have to fall apart so better things can come together,” by Marilyn Monroe. The internet is full of them. We all get those quotes but when you’re actually going through a burnout, none of them are helpful. Hopelessness kicks in and you start to question everything.

It’s interesting that my burnout didn’t come from a feeling of being overwhelmed at first as most burnouts do. A lot of my of clients express to me that they feel completely overwhelmed all the time but I never felt overwhelmed because I had a process and system for everything. I was just going, going, going and was fine with that. I believe my burnout was initiated by a huge disappointment in my business. I had been working on a project wholeheartedly, putting my blood, sweat, and tears into it. I envisioned where it was going and how it was going to be super successful. When it wasn’t, my fire – my drive for my business, fizzled out immediately and completely. When that passion disappeared I just didn’t know what to do with myself. The excitement that would wake me up at three or four o’clock in the morning to work in my office and drive my business just wasn’t there.

After going through my first personal burnout and coming out of it with renewed focus, I feel I learned a few lessons that may be helpful for other entrepreneurs and business owners.

1. Don’t Put All Your Eggs In One Basket

I put all of my time, energy, and passion into one specific project in my business so when it failed to come to fruition, I didn’t have a backup plan for what I was going to do with my time. That was THE direction I was going to take my business. The burnout wouldn’t have been so devastating if I had had multiple projects going on, streams of revenue coming in, ideas to think through, or a backup plan for my time. We need to be more versatile in our businesses, have multiple streams of income, and keep numerous opportunities in our back pockets. That way if one idea, plan, or project doesn’t work out, we can always work on another one.

2. A Business Failure Doesn’t Mean You’re A Failure

As a business owner myself, I know that your business is your baby. You put your blood, sweat, and tears into managing it day in and day out which means it has become a large part of you. That also means it is hard to distance yourself, your self-confidence, and your ego from it. At first I felt extremely guilty that I didn’t have the same passion for my business that I once had. I was at a loss not knowing where I was going to go next. To tell the truth though, I never once thought I wanted to go back to the corporate world. I never thought for even one second about clocking in nine to five so I can’t say it got that bad, but the burnout bled out into all other areas of my life. I took a personal hiatus as well. I needed that time off. I wasn’t go, go, go like I had always been because I couldn’t be. Taking a lengthy break from my business and personal agenda was necessary to fully recover from my disappointment.

At the root of it, my burnout really stemmed from the initial overwhelming disappointment from a failure in my business. Once I finally got around to assessing why I burned out, I faced the reality that I needed that time to step away, evaluate the direction for my business from a fresh point of view, and strategize where I want to take it next. Just because you have a setback or failure in your business does not mean you’re a failure. It means you hit a rough patch and have been presented an opportunity to grow anew from the roots of the experience and wisdom you gained.

3. Burnout Is Avoidable

Could I have avoided burnout? No, at least not at the speed and not in the way I was going. I was sprinting as fast as I could toward a single goal without pausing to check if I was training with the right coach, warmed up, wearing the right shoes, or even staying within my lane. My burnout happened because I was taking care of only one single need in my life and neglecting all the others. My burnout had to happen in order for me to learn from my mistakes, rejuvenate, and grow.

My burnout forced me to disconnect and totally relax. Take a breather. I can’t recall the last time I did, if ever. My burnout lasted for six whole weeks. I totally dipped out of my business, doing only the minimum, and seeing only a few clients for well over a month. I hadn’t done that in almost four years of being in business, even for a week. I had been full force all the time and was apparently due for a break.

While I do believe my burnout was a necessary part of my growing process, it does not need to be part of yours because burnout is avoidable. Whether you are exhausted from attempting to run a marathon and quickly losing stamina or sprinting to a finish line like I was, you can stop burnout in its tracks. Everyone has a different reason for burnout but ultimately, it is caused by a lack of self-care. Are you taking care of yourself or just your child/project/goal/business? Are you getting enough sleep? Maintaining positive and supportive relationships? Putting undue pressure on yourself? Working toward more than one goal or idea? Able to settle for less than perfection? Taking needed breaks?

When the symptoms of an oncoming burnout start surfacing, take the proactive approach. Disconnect for an hour, a day, or even a week. Tap out. Rejuvenate. Take time to debrief on what’s not working and strive to change. Purposefully refresh then recalibrate. You can avoid burnout by recognizing its causes and altering your habits.

I’m not going to lie. My burnout had me lingering in a pretty dark place for a while. I was drifting in total limbo, oblivious to which way was up and which way was down. I was disappointed, confused, and lacking the passion to undertake anything. I had stumbled, been bruised, and didn’t know where to take my business next. That brought up a LOT of questions. Tough questions. But those questions made me think and assess and dream, and once I mustered the energy and strength to give it a go again, I answered all of them. I designed a new plan for my business and am excited about the direction it’s headed. I am back in the office every day. I am attacking my ideas and projects with passion and a renewed sense of purpose. I hope a burnout doesn’t have to be part of your story like it had to be mine, but if so, I hope you approach it as only a chapter, not an entire book, and embrace it as the growing opportunity it can be.

Take Action Challenge:

Commit to taking purposeful breaks to
rejuvenate, recalibrate, and avoid a lengthy burnout.

These episodes are packed with great tips and actionable advice for business owners and entrepreneurs. I refer my own clients to Amber's podcast. Why reinvent the wheel?! Thanks Amber, keep up the great work!

Really useful information!

October 19, 2018 by Curlygirl121 from United States

This podcast gives real, meaty advice, not just random chit chat like other podcasts. Listening to this podcast is really helping me to use my time wisely. Way to go Amber!

Inspiring and Practical

October 18, 2018 by groovingal from United States

After discovering PST through the Biz Chix podcast, I eagerly listened to all of the back episodes. Amber not only shines with her direct and practical tips, most of which can be applied both personally and professionally, she’s also a fantastic interviewer. She has a friendly and down-to-earth, yet professional style that is motivating and inspiring.

So much actionable advice!

September 28, 2018 by Jessrod84 from United States

Between the episodes where Amber focuses on how we can truly "invest our best time on our best activities" and the interviews of how other entrepreneurs are doing exactly that... this podcast is a much needed breath of fresh air! It can be so easy to get caught up in the everyday activites of your business and the way Amber brings us back to where we need to focus is so appreciated. A must listen for sure!

Demire's Episode was superb!!!

August 10, 2018 by Ozzie0809 from Philippines

I highly recommend listening to Demir's episode of Lifehack Bootcamp!!!!

Such an incredible podcast!

August 8, 2018 by harleemai from United States

Amber is so personable and makes hard hitting, important topics so easy to follow. I especially loved her recent interview with Demir Bentley - such an interesting episode!

Love it!

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Great podcast! Loved the Demir Bentley episode, so inspiring!

Actionable & inspiring

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Listened to the episdode with Demir Bentley and absolutely loved it! Amber is a fab host and she brings in the best guests.

Incredibly insightful!

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I love how Amber interviews - she guides the conversation but it never feels stale. And her personal observations are always on point! Definitely a must for someone looking to stay sharp with their productivity.

Best productivity podcast

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I listen to a number of productivity podcasts but this is by far the best - lots of very practical ideas and tips to take away and use.

Immediate impact!

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As my business grows I know I need to find a new approach to be more efficient and effective with my time — but I wasn’t sure where to start. I’m so thankful I heard about this podcast. Every single episode I’ve listened to so far has helped me get on the right track to make the most of the time I have each day. After just a few weeks I am already so much more productive using the tools and structure Amber provides.

So Much Valuable Information!

July 17, 2018 by Deanna Gillingham from United States

I love this podcast. I keep finding so much to take action on that I need to stop what I'm doing while listening and take notes. This is more like a course than a podcast. I get useful gems in each episode which really surprised me. As someone who has been working on productivity for years I thought I heard it all, lol!

Productivity Hacks Galore

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Achieve a higher level of success in business and life! Amber De La Garza is a true Productivity Specialist! Karen Briscoe, author and podcast host "5 Minute Success"

How to Improve Personal Productivity and Time

July 17, 2018 by CKingLasVegas from United States

Amber as always hits it out of the park. Her topics apply to anyone no matter what they do in life for a career or for that matter just in your daily life. She's passioniate on her topics and passoiniate about motivating others to become the best they can be! Truly an amazing Podcast! Share her thoughts with your friends and family they will be blown away!!

Impactful, Actionable Advice

July 16, 2018 by Angie TB from United States

I LOVE the Productivity Straight Talk podcast and all of the expertise Amber brings to it! It is one of my favorite shows because I walk away from every episode with something I can DO in my business to move it forward. Amber offers the perfect balance of a kick in the pants with a large dose of encouragement and support!

Excellent!

July 12, 2018 by L Gilpatrick from United States

I’ve been listening to Amber’s podcast for four months and her approach to productivity has had a tremendous impact on my work activity. I listen to her podcasts almost daily to get my mindset fixed on productivity as I drive to work. I recommend this for anyone who is ready to take responsibility for their success. She helps you identify mindset changes and habit changes to get your business in motion.

Worth Every Star!

June 18, 2018 by Graysonip from United States

So grateful I found this podcast. Full of excellent content. I’m immediately implementing Amber’s advice in my law practice. Thank you!

Great actionnable tips

June 15, 2018 by Smilesupersam from France

What I love about Amber’s podcast, is the actionnable strategies and tips, you identify immediately with the content and find ways you can apply them to your struggle.
Also, I’m a fan of the way she delivers her speech ^^

Energizing, thoughtful & rewarding!

June 13, 2018 by hgreig from United States

What a great find! I personally have been seeking to become less stressed and more productive in my life. Amber's ability to bring thoughtful content in each episode, which relates to many aspects of my work load, is refreshing. I look forward to her energy, honesty and constant striving for tools to make this busy world a more productive place!

Amber is flat out AMAZING!

May 24, 2018 by Valorie Davidson from United States

As a business owner, there are a lot of moving parts. The cliche of ‘cannot see the forest for the trees’ has been applicable for myself and my business . Amber is extremely skilled at helping you step back and look at how you can make your business more efficient and your life more balanced. Her knowledge and years of experience will not only help you move your business forward but also a great resource for personal development.

Straight forward and no nonsense.

May 4, 2018 by WARREN RAY from United States

Amazed at the practical and useful info I was able to pull from just the first few episodes. Subscribed straight away!

Fantastic podcast

April 11, 2018 by Maxi star from Australia

Thanks for a great weekly podcast. Got my tax done in a day after procrastinating for weeks.

A smart and sophisticated podcast

March 7, 2018 by fitJaime from United States

Straight to the point without sugar coating. Every episode has me rethinking how I do business and how I spend my time. A must listen -- this podcast has become my Monday afternoon commute ritual. Keep up the great content Amber!

Top Podcast for Business Owners!

March 2, 2018 by Casey Jade Photo from United States

This podcast is top on my list for a few reasons. Amber is a Las Vegas local which means a lot to me, because she interviews a lot of entrepreneurs in my community and I can learn more about what is going on in my city. Secondarily, her podcast is all about productivity and interviewing business professionals on their productivity habits. Best of all, at the end of each podcast she encourages you to take action on the information you received. She doesn't do this just for you to listen as say "Oh, yes that sounds nice." She wants you to succeed and be more productive in your business. As business owners, we all take in as much information as we can, but most of us lack on the follow through of implementing and taking action. After listening to Amber's productivity tips, you will want to rush to your workspace and start taking immediate changes. Amber switches the format from interviews with productive industry professionals to solo podcasts where she gives you tips and tricks to succeed in everyday business. She is clear, concise, and has a slight sarcastic tone, which engages me and keeps me excited for each week's episode.

A real specialist!

February 8, 2018 by drmaggiedominguez from United States

Amber’s podcast is wonderful! I have been teaching college level time management, critical thinking, and productivity for 15 years and I learn something new from Amber’s podcast each time I listen. Either she reminds me of critical content that we always need to remember or a new way to implement something. I highly recommend this podcast to all!

Productivity Hacks Galore

January 19, 2018 by Karen Briscoe, Author from United States

Achieve a higher level of success in business and life! Amber De La Garza is a true Productivity Specialist!

Fun and informative

November 26, 2017 by CarolMorganCox from United States

Amber is the real deal - smart, fun, and knowledgeable. Her podcast episodes are always full of actionable insights and stories to learn from.

So inspiring!

November 20, 2017 by Dewpoint Communications from United States

I love this podcast! Amber has forgotten more about productivity than I’ll ever know, and I get so much new, useful info out of every episode that I can apply right away to help me grow my business. Thank you, Amber!

Productivity Hacks Galore

November 7, 2017 by Mega Agent and Author from United States

Achieve a higher level of success in business and life! Amber De La Garza is a true Productivity Specialist

So much insight!

November 1, 2017 by SheConnex-Shelli Warren from Canada

You'll simply not believe this is a NEW podcast. Amber's style feels so seasoned, so easy, and so insightful as she shares tips, tactics, trends, & technology to help you be a productive biz owner. You'll want to hit the replay and take notes!

Myths debunked and clear strategies given!

October 24, 2017 by LaraCurrie from United States

I look forward to Amber’s podcast each week. As a scattered ENFP entrepreneur I appreciate her diving into all the various aspects of productive, and the myths around any one “right way” to be productive. Great podcast.

Transaction Coordinator

October 23, 2017 by J Keech - TransactionPlace One from United States

Time is our greatest value in both our personal and professional lives. Yet time is not a commodity we can trade. When it's gone, it's gone. The information, training and support coming out of The Productivity Spcialist is incredible! My entire day is focused on promoting a real estate agents need to stay in a sales mode, rather than operations. Amber's topics, hints and routines provide me with the ammunition to keep my agents accountable and highly productive.

An amazing podcast for entrepreneurs!

October 6, 2017 by OrganizedFix from United States

Amber has put together such a great show! Every episode is packed full of practical advice that you can put into action right away!

Just right

September 29, 2017 by Zweeit gammey from United States

Amber has a mind for productivity and understands all of our unproductive ways and cluttered businesses. Her podcasts are brief and powerful nuggets of information that help me make tweaks to my business for the better. Thanks Amber!

I love Amber's super practical tips on productivity. I also love that she urges listeners to take action at the end of every episode. She's got great tips and a great personality, and I highly recommend this show. Entertaining and educational!

Super helpful show to keep you on track! Love the actionable tips and the friendly conversation. Motivating and pleasant to listen to. Thanks Amber!

Straight Shooting Advice

August 24, 2017 by Courtney Townley from United States

Amber has a very refreshing approach to helping entreprenuers navigate challenges with productivity. She is a great speaker, teacher and fire starter for those who are seeking to take back control over their business and life. Highly recommended.

Love this!

August 24, 2017 by kkrimitsos from United States

This is such a helpful show! Thanks for sharing this Amber!

This one stands out from among the rest

August 24, 2017 by Ikkibu77 from United States

With direct content and relatable and easy to apply wisdom.

Love it

August 6, 2017 by RJeezy2324 from United States

Browsing on what to do or watch on business success, I see all these covers, and here I see this chick with just sarcasm all over her face, so of course I must see what she's all about. So I glance through her list of episodes, I have to say, I don't swear, which is why episode 11 caught my eye. I love that Amber keeps it real, and it's so true! Planning and not letting one task slowly lap over another sneaks up on you. I'll be starting from episode one to see what else she has in store. ??

New view on productivity

August 2, 2017 by NVIsela from United States

It is refreshing to hear her break down what she think improves productivity. Not jut a quick fix but a mindset shift for long term results. I can't wait to keep learning from her.

Overwhelmed entrepreneurs

August 2, 2017 by VLopezNV1 from United States

I stumbled upon this podcast and I am so happy I did. I have implemented what Amber shared in her time blocking episode and found it to be so helpful. I have tried time blocking so many times but this time I feel it is working much better. This is an excellent podcast for overwhelmed entrepreneurs!

A Great Addition to the Productivity Podcast Space

July 31, 2017 by ErikJFisher - BTTDL from United States

Not everyone learns the same way, and there is no one size fits all approach to productivity. This show is a welcome addition to the existing realm of productivity podcasts!

Practical Passionate Productivity

July 10, 2017 by T_Adams from United States

It is obvious Amber is passionate about helping entrepreneurs pursue and succesfully fulfill their dreams. She takes information we may have already heard or would seem common sense and explains it with a motivational spin in a way that makes you think. Amber is relatable, has an edge, and is easy to understand and follow, keeping your attention. She delivers useful information in a practical way to help anyone become more productive.

I always learn something

July 10, 2017 by kullistener from United States

I love listening to Amber's podcasts... She is a straight shooter with a sense of humor and a quick wit. Her tips and info always hit home with me. Sometimes it's like she is in my head and knows just what I need to hear.

Stuff I can use right away

July 3, 2017 by Eayjbfukmvdddh from United States

Amber's show is short and sweet and it gives me easy ideas for boosting my productivity that I can implement immediately and easily.

Can't wait to hear more!!

June 29, 2017 by Alwaysgrow from United States

As a busy entrepreneur I don't often take time for podcasts especially when they often feel monotonous, but Amber's podcast not only caught my ear, but kept me coming back to hear more! She has new and valuable insight for all of us entrepreneurs! Plus her delivery shows that shes a really passionate bada** & has a lot of things we need to hear! Well done Amber, I'll be back soon <3

Want to be more productive in your business and personal life? Then Amber's Productivity Straight Talk podcast is a "must subscribe to" on your podcast play list.Implementing Amber's practical and specific productivity advice has increased productivity ten-fold.Amber's podcast is fun and refreshing to listen to. Her balance in rotating between interviewing experts and her individual episodes is a great format! She has an amazing ability to highlight what has made others productive and then brings it home to help you understand how you can do that too. In Amber's individual episodes, she shares her productivity advice with authority and real-life experiences.The best part of the Produtivity Straight Talk podcast is that Amber gives you actionable steps to increasing your productivity in your own business and personal life that really work!

Straight (and Sassy) Biz Advice

June 27, 2017 by Lexinic from United States

Amber's podcast packs so much punch. She's already snagged some great guests - and has great rapport with them. Her tips are actionable, relevant and effective, and her voice is incredibly appealing. I highly recommend.

Great Content!!

June 27, 2017 by Traci Human from United States

Great content on Productivity Straight Talk! I feel like Amber is speaking directly to ME!!

Tackling Your Goals With Tactical Precision

June 27, 2017 by 2GetJohn from United States

There are many people who can offer tips on improving productivity. But, Amber De La Garza goes beyond just sharing tips and connects with her listeners to help them think and act productively. It is the productivity version of the adage, "Teach a person to fish." Listen in and you will be fed great information and techniques. Connect and become a regular and learn to be the person who can find your own solutions, your own growth and yes, your most productive self. Slow down to go fast. Don't get it? Listen and you will.

Makes Being Productive Fun and Easy

June 26, 2017 by MarkSASmith from United States

Amber's interesting insights and thoughtful guests make it easy to be the best person you can be, not just for your job, but for you. Energetic, irreverent, practical, and fun this quick and easy listen deserves a spot on your podcast list.

Great Podcast for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners

June 26, 2017 by Jano444 from United States

Amber is passionate about and an expert on this topic! This podcast is on my regular listening schedule because it is packed with actionable tips and strategies to maximize productivity and your time. The episodes include her best coaching & consulting advice to interviews with other experts and thought leaders. Highly recommend it!

The Real Deal for Productivity!

June 26, 2017 by Rawvibing from United States

This is definitely an informative and easy to listen to Podcast. This show isn't simply motivational speaches to inspire, there are some solid actionable lessons that you can pull from the content that will help you make the right changes in your business to be more successful. Knolwedge is NOT power until it is applied. SO BE PRODUCTIVE AND APPLY THIS KNOWLEDGE!!!

Highly recommended!

June 22, 2017 by Jeff Civillico from United States

Amber has a fresh honesty to her that makes her podcast very enjoyable to listen to. She obviously knows her subject very well, and shares her knowledge in a raw, vulnerable, and authentic way I found very refreshing. Great value, higly recommended!

Practical information delivered efficiently!

June 21, 2017 by Ms5tylZ from United States

This podcaster blew me away with her no nonsense approach and abundance of downright useful information. I was able to implement several of her techniques into my daily routine. Impressed with her passionate and genuine delivery. Lastly, as a content creator myself, I can appreciate the attention to detail and effort that went into the production and execution of such a high quality audio product. Great info and easy to listen to, subscribed!

This is a MUST LISTEN for anyone wanting to improve their business!

June 21, 2017 by Lindsey Butler from United States

I am so glad that Amber has now produced her own podcast!! I can share this information with my real estate network, friends, family and even clients as Amber has done an incredible job offering content that is direct, straight-to-the-point and will impower and improve YOUR life today!

Powerful and Sound Advice On Increasing Productivity

June 21, 2017 by Danny Phee in Las Vegas from United States

An amazing display of productivity in action! Great for real estate agents and small business owners who want to really take it to the next level!

Straight Up Productivity!

June 21, 2017 by nvsnapp from United States

I'm super-impressed with what Amber brings to the productivity space! She comes strong with high energy, practical advice and a passion to help people get productive on purpose. So excited to see where she takes this high-quality, high-production value
podcast. -Nick Snapp, Host of The Make it Snappy Productivity Show

A True Business Rock Star.

June 7, 2017 by "Marvelless" Mark Kamp from United States

Beauty and the Beast. Amber is fierce in her approach with no BS. Just like a rockstar her content is original,useful, and entertaining. They say we learn from our mistakes but I would rather learn from other people's mistakes. Or learn from experts like Amber or the professionals she interviews. Bring it on.

Amber Rocks!

June 6, 2017 by Darren LaCroix from United States

She tells it like it is. She help clean up my business in a day. No BS, pure value. Isn't that what we want as business owners. Im careful who I listen to. I listen to Amber.

Well orgainized and thoughtful

June 4, 2017 by Mermaids4 from United States

Amber defines productivity by investing your best time into your best activities. This show is packed full of useful tips to make sure that happens.Give it a listen!

What Great Information!

June 1, 2017 by MrGlennMeier from United States

I've listened to several episodes of productivity straight talk and I can't wait for more! It feels like I'm sitting with friends talking about ideas to improve our businesses. There's no agenda being pushed beyond giving the listener real world actionable tips that they can use to really make a difference in their lives. Amber's delivery is fun, engaging, and most of all practical! I have nothing but appreciation for her and all of her guests for taking their time to put this great information out there.

Fresh and exciting with passion in her voice

May 28, 2017 by Lilburtlj from United States

Amber delivers a wonderful podcast with a fresh look at entrepreneurship, and you can hear it in her voice. I love the rotating format of delivering tips and tricks from her personal experience and sharing experiences from other entrepreneurs. Her excitement resonates in her voice and you can tell this isn't for profit but from passion. This passion project can and will help any and all young people who are looking for ways to fuel their desire to be their own boss. I love that she debunks the myths of business and nurtures all people who are looking to grow their business and brand.
As a person who has read many books on business and taken many seminars, I love that she goes against the status quo and shows you ways that even when you don't fit the 9-5 mold, you can be equally productive if you put your energy and effort in the proper channels. I look forward to the podcasts to come!!

A treat for entrepreneurs

May 25, 2017 by KDizz80 from United States

I've listened to three PST episodes so far. Unlike a few other "productivity" podcasts I've listened to, this one is geared toward entrepreneurs and is loaded with tips I can implement immediately to grow my biz. It didn't push products down my throat that could potentially improve my productivity. The host has a refreshing stance on productivity I hadn't heard before. She sounds knowledgable and like she genuinely wants to help entrepreneurs get ahead.